Exercise is recommended as an effective strategy for weight loss. However, research has shown that intense exercise can actually lead to weight gain.

According to a study published in Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise, high-intensity exercise was found to decrease overall activity and heat production despite no change in food intake.

Researchers at Tsukuba University in Japan divided mice into three groups: high-intensity exercise, moderate-intensity exercise, and rest. They monitored physical activity indicators and core body temperature, which are markers of heat production, before and after exercise in the mice.

 

Research results showed that in the high-intensity exercise group, despite no change in food intake, both physical activity levels and core body temperature significantly decreased after exercise, leading to weight gain. In particular, they exhibited relatively low blood cortisol levels during waking hours.

Cortisol, the stress hormone, follows a circadian rhythm, being low during sleep and peaking upon waking, regulating physical and mental activity levels. Therefore, high cortisol levels while awake indicate a disruption of the circadian rhythm of cortisol. As a result, activity levels decrease after exercise, which can lead to weight gain.

 

The researchers stated, "The research results indicate that a single session of high-intensity exercise can disrupt the circadian rhythm of cortisol, potentially reducing physical activity, body temperature, and weight gain," and emphasized, "When designing exercise regimens for effective weight loss, it is important to consider not only the calories burned during exercise but also subsequent activity levels and circadian rhythms."

 

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Losing weight solely through exercise is difficult.

They say you also need to follow a diet plan to make it possible.

 

Diet diaries are said to be very effective.